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Updated: Jan 5, 2026
Paper-Based Preconcentration and Isolation of Microvesicles and Exosomes
Published on: April 29, 2020
Origami-paper-based device for microvesicle/exosome preconcentration and isolation
Hyerin Kim1, Kyu Hyoung Lee, Sung Il Han
1Department of Electrical Engineering, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea. jhlee@kw.ac.kr.
Abstract:
Microvesicles and exosomes are promising liquid biopsy biomarkers. However, conventional isolation techniques damage and contaminate the biomarkers. We developed an origami-paper-based device for effective isolation of biomarkers with less damage and in fewer steps. The multi-folded device enables the preconcentration of the microvesicles/exosomes on specific layers (∼5-fold) by the ion concentration polarization technique and they were simply isolated from the rest of the sample by unfolding the device.
Insights
Researchers developed a novel origami-paper device for isolating microvesicles and exosomes, crucial liquid biopsy biomarkers. This new method minimizes damage and contamination, offering a simpler and more effective isolation process.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Microvesicles and exosomes are valuable biomarkers for liquid biopsies.
- Current isolation methods often lead to biomarker damage and sample contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an improved method for isolating microvesicles and exosomes.
- To reduce damage and contamination during biomarker isolation.
Main Methods:
- Development of a multi-folded origami-paper-based device.
- Utilizing ion concentration polarization for biomarker preconcentration.
- Isolation of biomarkers through device unfolding.
Main Results:
- The origami device achieved a ~5-fold preconcentration of microvesicles/exosomes.
- Effective isolation of biomarkers with reduced damage and fewer steps compared to conventional methods.
Conclusions:
- The origami-paper device offers an effective and less damaging approach for isolating microvesicles and exosomes.
- This technique shows promise for advancing liquid biopsy applications.
